Saint Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church
Reflection
Thus it is that We may prefigure the new in the old patriarch [Joseph, cf. Gen 37]. And as the first caused the prosperity of his master’s domestic interests and at the same time rendered great services to the whole kingdom, so the second, destined to be the guardian of the Christian religion, should be regarded as the protector and defender of the Church, which is truly the house of the Lord and the kingdom of God on earth. These are the reasons why men of every rank and country should fly to the trust and guard of the blessed Joseph. Fathers of families find in Joseph the best personification of paternal solicitude and
Quamquam Pluries, 4
vigilance; spouses a perfect example of love, of peace, and of conjugal fidelity; virgins at the same time find in him the model and protector of virginal integrity.
(Encyclical by Pope Leo XIII, 1889)
Prayer
For an End to the Coronavirus Pandemic
Saint Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church,
we ask that you intercede with your Son,
the Saviour of the world,
for an end to the coronavirus pandemic,
that the sick may experience healing,
the dying, peace,
healthcare workers, strength,
and our leaders, wisdom.
V. Protect me, O God,
R. For in you I take refuge. (Ps 16.1)
Action
Implore God’s help, with increased fervour and
constancy, for an end to this pandemic.
St. Francis of Assisi Parish 